By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, 15 January 2026 - Real Madrid’s hopes in the 2025–26 Copa del Rey ended in stunning fashion as second-division side Albacete produced one of the biggest upsets of the season. In Álvaro Arbeloa’s first game in charge as interim head coach, Los Blancos suffered a 3–2 defeat, crashing out in the round of 16 in dramatic style.
Played at Albacete’s Estadio Carlos Belmonte under foggy conditions, the match saw twists and late-game drama that left Real Madrid players and fans stunned.
Shortly before the break Javi Villar gave the hosts the lead with a powerful header from a corner, catching Madrid off guard and sending the home fans into celebration.
The Los Blancos fought back, equalizing in the first half stoppage time with Franco Mastantuono getting them level , pouncing on a rebound after a corner was flicked on, a lifeline for Madrid.
The second remained quiet despite multiple attacks from both teams. In the 82nd minute , substitute Jefte Betancor put the underdogs back in front with a crisp finish after a defensive lapse from the visitors. This put Real Madrid and Arbeloa under pressure.
When Albacete looked to be getting their win in regulation time. However, Gonzalo García nodded home from a set-piece in stoppage time to pull Madrid level and seemingly push the tie toward extra time.
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The home team didn't relent, Betancor struck again in injury time with a brilliant finish, capitalising on a loose ball to seal an unforgettable victory for Albacete.
The defeat marks a humbling debut for Arbeloa, who took over after Xabi Alonso’s departure earlier in the week. With key stars like Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham absent, Real Madrid fielded a rotated side but were still expected to progress, only to be undone by spirited opponents
Albacete’s triumph is historic: a club with limited success against Real Madrid previously, they now advance into the Copa del Rey quarter-finals while the Spanish giants face early elimination.
For Madrid, this loss adds to mounting pressure on the squad and coaching staff as they look to regroup in La Liga and the Champions League.
